Henry William Ravenel, 1814-1887: Private Journal 1861-1862: Page 7

Nov. 1861 Pooshee           

active service about Beaufort.
12.30 Rev. Mr. Sams was here this morning, having returned from Beaufort a day or two ago whither he had gone to bring off his negroes. He visited the plantation on Tuesday night & brought off 8, leaving a few women and children that he thought would not be molested. They are now at Pinopolis & as soon as the whooping cough now among is over, they will come on to Pooshee & "remain here during the war". Mr. Sams states that the negroes on the island are "in a mist", uncertain what to do, without 
any feeling of disaffection to their masters, but unwilling to leave their homes. He has not heard of a single case of active insubordination. This speaks well for their feeling of loyalty & devotion in such a time of temptation. 
Mr. Sams will preach at Black Oak for us tomorrow.
5.P.M. The papers of today give us accounts of the opening of the war at Pensacola yesterday Fort Pickens (in possession of the Lincolnites) opened fire yesterday upon Fort McRae, & our fort was responding. An interruption of telegraphic communication prevented any despatches later than yesterday afternoon. No other news of importance.